Actually, thinking about it...

The front cabin has a number of rows with a movable curtain.

Previously, the front cabin would be filled with business class passengers, and topped up with élites behind the curtain.

But now, it will be filled with both business class and full-fare economy passengers, under the banner of Europe Select. That's more people (desertions notwithstanding), so less room for élites.

To give them their due, though, since that's been the case, I've always had an exit row seat assigned automatically...